Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Safety · Alarms
Smoke and CO alarm rules for landlords
Every storeysmoke alarm
Combustionappliance = CO alarm
Day onetest & record
Finesup to £5,000
In short: In England, landlords must fit at least one smoke alarm on every storey with living accommodation, and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance, such as a gas boiler or wood burner (gas cookers are excluded). Alarms must be working at the start of every new tenancy, and landlords must repair or replace them promptly once told they're faulty. Councils can fine landlords up to £5,000 for breaches. HMOs have extra fire safety duties. Fraser Bond checks and records alarms at every check-in for homes we manage.
| Where | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Every storey with living space | At least one smoke alarm |
| Room with gas boiler, fire or wood burner | Carbon monoxide alarm |
| Room with only a gas cooker | No CO alarm required (but recommended) |
| Start of every tenancy | Alarms tested and working |
| Fault reported | Repair or replace promptly |
Smoke and CO alarm rules for rented homes in England
Alarm checklist for each tenancy
- Test your alarms monthly
- Report faults to your landlord straight away
- Never remove batteries
- Record tests at check-in with photos
- Replace alarms at the end of their life
- Consider interlinked alarms
- Fire risk assessment needed
- Often interlinked mains alarms and fire doors
- Check your licence conditions
Compliance with Fraser Bond
- Alarm checks at every check-in
- Gas, electrical and EPC certificates tracked
- Licensing support
- Full management
Frequently asked questions
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Do landlords need CO alarms by gas cookers?
No, gas cookers are excluded, but a CO alarm is still a good idea.
Who tests alarms during a tenancy?
Tenants should test regularly; landlords must repair faults once reported.
What is the fine?
Councils can impose penalties of up to £5,000.
Want compliance handled?
Our management service covers safety checks.
Speak to our teamProperty services
